September 11, 2012

40 years of expanding multiculturalism at K-State Libraries

Since 1972, there has been a resource center within the libraries at Kansas State University. Variously named, it was always dedicated to resources and instruction related to the intersections of culture, race and ethnicity.

Last year, the dean of libraries, Lori A. Goetsch, charged a committee to examine the center's purpose and goals with a focus on assuring excellent multicultural collections and related services; improving communications, programs, and outreach activities; and making better use of center's website and virtual collections. This work will come to fruition with a rededication of the center this fall, honoring its illustrious past and looking to its bright future.

At 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, on Hale Library’s fourth floor, a celebration titled “Centered: 40 years of expanding multiculturalism at K-State Libraries” will take place. Exhibits, performances, remarks and refreshments will accompany the unveiling of the center's new home, name and mission. Both the K-State community and the public are invited to attend.

"We are excited to provide this new home for a valued part of the libraries, and glad that Provost April Mason, Associate Provost for Diversity Myra Gordon and guests from the Dow Corporation will be present and participating in the celebration," Goetsch said. "Having all our closest partners there -- from both on and off campus -- will make the day truly special."

This event is the beginning of a yearlong slate of activities celebrating the 40th anniversary of the center’s presence in the libraries. For more information about this and other events celebrating the anniversary, see the center's webpage.